Commercial Waste Bermondsey Modern Slavery Statement
Commercial Waste Bermondsey is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our operations and supply chains. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out our approach to risk assessment, due diligence, and remediation. We recognise that as a provider of commercial waste services, including commercial waste bermondsey collection and disposal, we have a responsibility to ensure all workers are treated fairly and lawfully across our operations.
Our zero-tolerance policy is unequivocal: we do not tolerate slavery, servitude, forced labour or human trafficking under any circumstances. All employees, contractors and suppliers are expected to adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct. We require clear confirmation from partners that labour is freely chosen, that workers are of legal age, and that working conditions meet UK employment standards. Breaches will result in contract termination and appropriate remedial action.
To translate this commitment into action across Bermondsey and the wider borough, we operate robust supplier due diligence and ongoing monitoring. Our procurement process includes pre-qualification checks, mandatory anti-slavery clauses in contracts, and periodic review of labour practices. We integrate Bermondsey commercial waste procurement standards into tender documentation and require evidence of compliance before awarding work.
We maintain a structured audit and assurance programme that includes site visits, documentary reviews and worker interviews. 
In the middle of these checks we evaluate payroll records, working hours, subcontracting arrangements and recruitment practices. Audits are risk-based with higher frequency for suppliers in high-risk categories and those operating in countries or sectors with known vulnerabilities.
Our supplier audits assess the following areas through a combination of remote and on-site methods:
- Verification of worker identity and age
- Contractual clarity and freedom to leave employment
- Safe working conditions and fair pay
- Use of recruitment agencies and fee policies
- Record-keeping and grievance mechanisms
We provide training and awareness for our staff and managers across the organisation to ensure they can identify and respond to signs of modern slavery in the commercial waste sector. Training covers what to spot, reporting responsibilities and how to support potential victims. Our approach emphasises prevention through education, continuous improvement and the promotion of worker rights in all contracts with Commercial Waste in Bermondsey partners.
Reporting channels are accessible and protected: employees, subcontractors and members of the public can raise concerns anonymously where necessary. We operate an internal confidential reporting line, a secure escalation route to senior management, and a clear procedure for referring potential victims to specialist support services. All reports are treated seriously, investigated promptly, and recorded for remedial action.
When an incident is identified we take immediate steps to prioritise the welfare of any affected people and to contain harm. Remedial measures may include suspension of the supplier, direct assistance to victims, cooperation with law enforcement and contract termination where appropriate. We treat remediation as an integral part of our response rather than an afterthought.
Governance of our anti-slavery work is overseen by senior leadership with regular reporting to the board. We set clear accountability for compliance across operational teams involved in waste collection, transport and processing. Key performance indicators include the number of supplier audits completed, corrective actions tracked, and training completion rates for staff handling commercial waste Bermondsey operations.
We review and update our policies annually to ensure they remain effective and responsive to evolving risks. The annual review examines audit outcomes, reported incidents, changes to our supply chains and external risk factors. Our annual review drives continuous improvement, informs procurement decisions and refines our supplier engagement strategy.
Conclusion and ongoing commitments
Commercial Waste Bermondsey will continue to strengthen its measures to prevent modern slavery through proactive supplier audits, clear reporting channels, and an unwavering zero-tolerance policy.
We will publish future statements reflecting progress and lessons learned, and maintain transparent oversight backed by strong governance and resources dedicated to eradicating forced labour from our operations and supply chains.
